Know Home Security Basics: Key Components of Your System

Thursday, 25 October 2018 11:27

Peace of mind. This is one of the biggest benefits that a home security system can deliver. But rest assured, there are plenty more! From safeguarding your family and valuables from intruders and lowering homeowners insurance rates to protecting against fire and carbon monoxide (as monitored systems can do), you will reap the rewards.

Are you thinking about installing a system or upgrading your current solution? Knowing the basic components can help you make the best choice for your needs, your home, and your family.

The Anatomy of Your Security System

There are several elements at play:

Control Panel

This is the brain of your system. It is often connected to your phone line or a wireless signal to allow access to a central monitoring station. The control panel’s job is to receive alerts from motion detectors and sensors and send out an alarm signal.

Note: We recommend a wireless system as it is much more difficult to counteract it. With a wired system (i.e. through your phone line), intruders could simply cut this line.

Monitoring Location

Sure, a blaring alarm may scare off intruders, but to provide true protection for your home, your security system needs to be connected to a 24/7 monitoring center. When staff here receive an alarm, they can dispatch the appropriate authorities to respond.

Keypad

You need to punch in a code or use another method of access (e.g. fingerprint) to arm and disarm your home security system. The keypad is where you do it. Usually, it is located near the front door, but you may want to consider having one installed near the master bedroom as well.

Window and Door Contacts

If a window or door is breached while your system is armed, the contacts send a signal to the control panel.

Motion Detectors

If an intruder does enter your home, motion detectors pick up the movement and alert your control panel. They are often heat-activated.

Alarm/Siren

What happens when your control panel receives an alert from your door or window contacts or motion detector? It will send a silent alarm to the monitoring company; it can also emit a loud siren designed to scare away intruders and alert your neighbors.

Valuable Home Security System Features to Consider

There are other optional features that you can integrate into your home security system as well. These include:

Surveillance Cameras

These can be excellent intruder deterrents and are useful if you do have a break-in or other event. They can be used as evidence to help police apprehend and charge the parties involved. Cameras also allow you to keep an eye on your home when you’re away.

Remote Monitoring Services

You can access and control your security system via your smartphone or tablet. This enables greater peace of mind when you are away from home. You can simply check in and be sure everything is all right.

Glass Break Sensors

If a window is broken instead of opened, these sensors send a signal to the control panel, activating the alarm.

Smart Locks

Forget the key! With smart locks, your smartphone becomes the key. You can enjoy keyless entry, mobile access (e.g. your family member forgets their key or you need to let a neighbor in to water the plants), and alerts if your lock status changes.

Automation

Automated features can include: lights, smart door locks, garage door openers, thermostats, doorbell cameras, and security cameras. A smart system is a smart choice because you can control it from virtually anywhere.

A home security system is an important investment in your safety and your peace of mind. Call a trusted security company to fully assess your needs and develop a solution that will allow you to rest easy.